House mouse

Key information

This tiny rodent has greyish fur, large ears, a pointed snout and a long, scaly tail. Apart from humans, it is probably the most common mammal in the UK.

It is a nocturnal creature and is often considered a pest, as it spoils food and carries disease. Mice are quite aggressive towards each other and fights are frequent.

They construct a system of tunnels to live in, which may be quite simple or more complex with several chambers and exits. Females are able to produce up to 10 litters in a year, each with between four to eight young. Within three weeks of birth, the young mice are independent.

The wood mouse Apodemus sylvaticus appears rather similar, but has more orange-brown fur and large, protruding eyes. This mouse is common in woods, hedgerows and scrub. It is a good climber and is often found in trees. It also enters houses in search of food.

What they eat:

Grain, seeds, roots, fungi and insects. Inside the house they seem to eat almost anything!

Measurements:

Length:

Up to 10cm, tail up to 10cm

Weight:

Up to 20g

Identifying features:

Natural habitats:
Bird tableHedgeLog pileMeadow areaPatioShed

Where and when to see them

You can see the house mouse around log piles, outbuildings, patio pots, and sometimes in the house. You can also find them on farmland.

You can see them at anytime of the year. They tend to come in the house during the winter months.